May 5, 1933 – September 24, 2017
James Crestanello made his last sarcastic remark on Sunday, September 24, 2017. The world got a little less funny that day, but he left us all with a legacy of stories and jokes, enough to last a life time.
James, also known as Cresty, Papa Jim, Hot Wheels, Uncle Jimmy and Rescue 2, was born in Roslyn, Washington on May 5, 1933 the only child to Eliza Panieri Crestanello and William “Jim” Crestanello. He grew up in Roslyn, Washington, graduated from Cle Elum High School in 1951, then traveled over the pass to the University of Washington graduating in Electrical Engineering. Jim then flew over the ocean to the Philippines for ROTC with the U.S. Air Force, finally making his way back to Renton, spending the rest of his working days at Boeing. He retired as soon as he could, and continued to goof off for the rest of his life.
He was very proud to be a Boeing Klown, donating time and tons of laughs to special kids. He was very involved in boat racing; Seafair, Limiteds, Drag Boats, etc, we don’t even know how many boats and drivers he pulled out of the water. Cresty loved to boat, fish, boat, ride dirt bikes, hunt and boat (in that order), which of course added to the extraordinary tales he told. “You remember that time when…” was frequently spoken in his company.
Jim will be sorely missed by, his daughter, Marie Crestanello Cordell; his son, John Crestanello; his first wife (mother to Marie and John), Diane Deonigi Crestanello; step children; Mark & Tammy Helwig, Michelle & Irene Givens; five grandchildren; Bailey & Carsen Cordell, Taylor & Toni Helwig and Tia Crestanello Williams; his great grandson, James Williams, and of course Maple (the dog). He is preceded in death by both his parents and wife, Rosalie Bertozzi Helwig Crestanello.
The family would like to thank all his friends and caregivers for putting up with him all these years. A celebration of life will happen in the near future, time and date TBA. If you would like to join us or want to share your stories with the family, please email cresty@juno.com.
In lieu of flowers, or anything else for that matter, please donate to Children’s Hospital (giveto.seattlechildrens.org) in his name and of course, support your local brewery.
